North Carolina Payroll Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate your net pay after federal, FICA, and North Carolina state taxes, along with common deductions.
Federal Withholding Information
North Carolina Withholding Information
Deductions
Payroll Summary
Gross Pay:
Pre-tax Deductions:
Federal Income Tax:
Social Security Tax:
Medicare Tax:
NC State Income Tax:
Post-tax Deductions:
Total Deductions:
Net Pay:
Understanding Your North Carolina Paycheck
Navigating your paycheck can sometimes feel complex, especially with various taxes and deductions. A North Carolina payroll calculator helps you understand how your gross earnings translate into your net take-home pay, considering federal, FICA, and specific North Carolina state taxes.
Gross Pay vs. Net Pay
Gross Pay is the total amount of money you earn before any deductions are taken out. This is typically your hourly wage multiplied by hours worked, or your annual salary divided by your pay periods.
Net Pay, often referred to as your take-home pay, is the amount you receive after all taxes and deductions have been subtracted from your gross pay.
Federal Withholding Taxes
The federal government requires employers to withhold income tax from your wages. The amount withheld depends on several factors, primarily your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.) and the information you provide on your W-4 form, including any dependents or additional withholding requests. The IRS uses a progressive tax system, meaning higher earners pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes.
FICA Taxes (Social Security and Medicare)
FICA stands for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, which funds Social Security and Medicare programs. These are mandatory deductions:
- Social Security: As of 2024, employees contribute 6.2% of their wages up to an annual wage base limit ($168,600 for 2024). This tax helps fund retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.
- Medicare: Employees contribute 1.45% of all wages, with no wage base limit. This tax helps fund hospital insurance for the elderly and disabled.
Your employer also pays a matching amount for both Social Security and Medicare taxes.
North Carolina State Income Tax
North Carolina stands out for its relatively simple state income tax system. Unlike many states with progressive tax brackets, North Carolina has been transitioning to a flat tax rate. For 2024, the state income tax rate is 4.6% on taxable income. Taxable income for NC purposes is generally your gross income minus certain deductions, such as the NC standard deduction and dependent deductions, which vary based on your filing status.
Common Deductions
Beyond mandatory taxes, your paycheck may include various deductions:
- Pre-tax Deductions: These are deductions taken from your gross pay before taxes are calculated, effectively reducing your taxable income. Common examples include contributions to a 401(k) or 403(b) retirement plan, health insurance premiums, and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) contributions.
- Post-tax Deductions: These deductions are taken after taxes have been calculated. Examples include Roth 401(k) contributions, union dues, garnishments, or certain charitable contributions. While they reduce your net pay, they do not reduce your taxable income.
How to Use the Calculator
To use the North Carolina Payroll Calculator, simply input your gross pay per period, select your pay frequency, and provide your federal and NC filing statuses and number of dependents. Enter any pre-tax or post-tax deductions you have. The calculator will then provide an estimated breakdown of your taxes and net pay, helping you better plan your finances.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual payroll calculations may vary based on specific circumstances, additional deductions, and changes in tax laws. Consult with a qualified tax professional for personalized advice.